Warning after bogus workman tries to con retired policeman

A retired policeman in Bishopbriggs who was targeted by a bogus workman wants to warn elderly people to be on their guard.

Alex Miller (57) of Auchinairn Road, served 17 years in the force as a police constable based in Kirkintilloch.

He told the Herald: ‘‘A man came to my door and said he was from East Dunbartonshire Council to do a survey for cavity wall insulation.

“I told him I was a retired policeman and to wait until I phoned the council to check. He then disappeared.

“I told the council but no one’s got back to me. I want to make people aware about this fraudster, particularly elderly people.”

Mr Miller is also concerned about a handwritten note put through his letterbox last week from a firm saying it worked for the council. He said: “A worker then turned up and said he was there to take measurements for a new kitchen for my council house. He had no form of identification. He turned out to be genuine – but why did he have no identification?”

Grace Irvine, director of neighbourhood services said she wanted to apologise to Mr Miller and added: “If the workman left his home when he was questioned about ID, it is likely he was bogus.” She urged people to call the police and trading standards if they are suspicious and said the firm working for it had been told staff must have ID.